potency
UK[ˈpəʊt(ə)nsi]US[ˈpoʊt(ə)nsi]
n
the power of something to influence or make an impression.
n
the strength of a drug, as measured by the amount needed to produce a particular effect.
n
(in a male) the ability to achieve an erection or to reach orgasm.
Morpheme Breakdown
pot
ency
pot
power
ency
state or quality
Etymology
the word 'potency' originates from the latin adjective 'potens', meaning 'powerful', which is the present participle of the verb 'posse', 'to be able'. this verb itself is a contraction of the archaic latin 'potis esse', literally 'to be powerful or able'. the suffix '-ency' is derived from latin '-entia', which forms abstract nouns indicating a state or condition. thus, the literal construction 'pot-entia' signifies 'the state or quality of being powerful'. over time, this core meaning of inherent power or capacity specialized into its modern applications, ranging from general influence and effectiveness to the specific strength of pharmaceuticals and male sexual capability.
Analysis
Structure: pot (power) + ency (state or quality)
pot (from latin 'potis', meaning 'powerful, able') + ency (from latin '-entia', a noun-forming suffix denoting a state or quality)
Examples
the potency of his argument convinced the entire committee.
this medication is available in different potencies.
the cultural potency of the myth has endured for centuries.